appreciation

noun

ap·​pre·​ci·​a·​tion ə-ˌprē-shē-ˈā-shən 

-ˌpri-,

 also  -ˌprē-sē-

1

a

: a feeling or expression of admiration, approval, or gratitude

I want to express my appreciation for all you've done.

a small token of our appreciation

b

: judgment, evaluation

especially : a favorable critical estimate

c

: sensitive awareness

especially : recognition of aesthetic values

a class in music appreciation

2

: increase in value

Synonyms

• account
• admiration
• esteem
• estimation
• favor
• regard
• respect

Examples of appreciation in a Sentence

You've been so generous, and I'd like to show my appreciation by cooking a meal for you.

She's shown little appreciation for the effort you've made.

I'm not sure you have an appreciation of the complexity of the situation.

I've gained an appreciation for the skills involved in the game.

Recent Examples on the Web

Lopez was moved to tears while addressing the crowd at the Sundance premiere and expressed her appreciation for being involved in the movie musical. —Ryan Gajewski, The Hollywood Reporter, 23 Mar. 2025

For Asia Bright, that includes a new appreciation for the outdoors. —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 21 Mar. 2025

All expressed immense appreciation for the resources the agency has provided and voiced disappointment at the prospect of its diminishment. —Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2025

Instead of sporadic, one-off acknowledgments, appreciation becomes a consistent and measurable part of workplace culture — with half the effort but twice the impact. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 21 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see appreciate

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing appreciation

• in appreciation of

Rhymes for appreciation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration